A Serial Killer's Guide to Life

A Serial Killer's Guide to Life is a British crime-comedy film directed and written by Staten Cousins Roe, released in 2019. This indie gem stars Katie Brayben, Poppy Roe, and Ben Lloyd-Hughes. The film offers a refreshing spin on the serial killer genre, intertwining dark comedy with horror. It intricately blends terrifying yet fascinating elements, expanding viewers' interest beyond the simplistic narrative of a 'serial killer.'

The film centres around Lou Farnt (played by Katie Brayben), a timid and introverted woman in her 30s. Still living with her overbearing and oppressive mother in her seaside hometown, Lou feels stuck in her humdrum life. Her only escape is her obsession with self-help books and therapeutic programs—taking life tips from anyone and everyone who's selling them in the hopes of uncovering a better version of herself.

However, things take an unexpected twist when Lou meets the charismatic and confident life-coach Val Stone (played by Poppy Roe). Enthralled by Val's assertiveness and magnetism, Lou jumps at the chance to be Val's new protégée. Val promises her a life-changing self-help tour, and Lou sees this as a golden opportunity to escape her stifling routine and oppressive mother.

As they embark on their road trip across the country to attend a string of self-help seminars, things go awry when it becomes evident that Val’s methods of 'help' are far from conventional. It rapidly descends into a dark and thrilling chaos when it’s revealed that Val’s unique approach towards self-help involves a horrific blend of enlightenment and homicide.

Still, in an ironic twist, as the body count rises, Lou finds herself growing in confidence, slowly transforming into the proactive, assertive woman she so desperately strived to be. On this satirical journey of self-improvement, Lou learns not just about herself but also about the human mind's peculiar and twisted workings.

Brayben gives a compelling performance as Lou, brilliantly portraying her character arc from a downtrodden woman to an assertive participant in Val's terrifying spree. Poppy Roe, as Val, steals the show with her magnetic screen presence, combining charm and menace in her role with an ease that's chilling to watch.

Ben Lloyd-Hughes plays a small yet pivotal part, creating a deeper layer of intrigue and suspense around Val's murky past history. The interactions between the characters deliver a mix of dark humour, terror, and eeriness, effectively maintaining the film's overall mood.

Set against the backdrop of serene seaside towns and tranquil countryside, A Serial Killer's Guide to Life creates a stark contrast with its gruesome theme, enhancing its macabre humour. This clashes amusingly with the film's sinister plot, adding an additional layer of complexity to the narrative. The sound design complements the narrative’s mood and enhances the overall viewing experience, especially during the movie’s shockingly comedic moments.

Director Staten Cousins Roe successfully weaves dark comedy, psychological thriller, and road film into an unforgettable cinematic experience. He uses the film’s unique premise to mock the self-help industry, uniquely blending comedy with elements of horror and suspense. The tension and fear escalate simultaneously with the characters' growth, creating a constant unsettling atmosphere.

A Serial Killer's Guide to Life pays homage to the classic crime thrillers while simultaneously breaking their traditional narrative molds. It offers a sociocritical view on the self-help industry, dynamically criticising its exploitative nature. Each scene delivers clever social commentary disguised by the film's shocking humour and disturbing murders. Beneath the macabre laughs and escalating body count lies a film that makes you question what people are willing to do to change their lives.

Featuring standout performances, disconcerting but hilarious plot twists, and a unique spin on the self-help culture, A Serial Killer's Guide to Life is a unique blend of horror and humor. It offers a combination of off-beat comedy, chilling suspense, and provocative social commentary, making this unconventional film a must-watch for fans of the horror-comedy genre. With its thoughtful performances, clever writing, and unexpected plot turns, this British indie film ensures a viewing experience that is as entertaining as it is unsettling.